Fin's Fish Guide
The Spotted whiff (Citharichthys macrops) is a saltwater fish of the family Paralichthyidae that grows up to 20 cm.
Description
The spotted whiff (Citharichthys macrops) is a small flatfish of the family Paralichthyidae from the western Atlantic. Like other left-eyed flatfishes both eyes lie on the left side of the oval, strongly flattened body; the upper side is sandy-brown with dark spots for camouflage. The species reaches about 20 cm and inhabits hard sand bottoms from the water's edge to about 18 metres deep, sometimes to 90 metres. As a bottom dweller it often lies half-buried in wait and feeds on small crustaceans and other invertebrates. Owing to its small size the species has little fishery importance.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Spotted whiff?
The Spotted whiff has a flattened, disc-shaped body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Left-eyed flatfish with small dark blotches; half-buries itself on sandy bottoms.
Where does the Spotted whiff live?
The Spotted whiff lives in the sea (marine waters) and is mostly found around stony or rocky ground. Hard sandy bottoms of coastal waters of the western Atlantic.
How big does the Spotted whiff get?
The Spotted whiff grows to a maximum of about 20 cm.
Is the Spotted whiff dangerous to humans?
No, the Spotted whiff is harmless to humans. This species is harmless to humans. No specific first aid is needed. Still handle the fish with care: mind the fin rays and the sharp edges of the gill cover, and rinse any scratch with clean water and cover it. For a dirty or deep wound check tetanus status.
Is the Spotted whiff edible?
The Spotted whiff is rarely eaten.
More photos
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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
Same genus Citharichthys
More from the family Paralichthyidae
Want the complete picture on the Spotted whiff?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Spotted whiff is one of 12,519 species in the app.